One key freshman is goalie Jeremy Swayman, a fourth-round pick of the Boston Bruins in the 2017 draft. He will compete for time with junior Rob McGovern, who had a 2.99 goals-against average last winter. Maine also has a new, full-time goalie coach in Alfie Michaud, the MVP of Maine’s 1999 national championship team.

“Hiring Alfie Michaud enhances the potential for both of those kids,” Gendron said.

...“If there is someone who can be and should be a captain as a sophomore, it’s Chase,” said freshman defenseman Patrick Holway. “It is well-deserved. He’s a very mature kid and his leadership is outstanding.”

Like the 20-year-old Pearson, Hamilton was honored to receive his captaincy.

“It’s nice to be able to lead this group of guys. We have a lot of good leaders on this team, whether they are captains or not. And being able to wear the letter (C) is obviously a pretty good honor,” said Hamilton.

“Mark battles on the ice and is well-respected in the locker room,” said Lacroix.

Hamilton was one of the nation’s top shot blockers a year ago with 90.